Pediatria pre prax 3/2012

Hyperthyroidism in children

Although thyroid axis disorders are increasingly frequent in the population, hyperthyroidism in childhood is a rare condition. The incidence increases with age, with more than 60% of immunogenetic forms of hyperthyroidism occurring between 10 and 15 years of age, more frequently in girls. A positive family history of autoimmune thyroiditis, clinical symptoms and laboratory tests make the detection of hyperthyroidism in the first line relatively simple. Differential diagnosis, treatment and surveillance of these patients fall within the competence of a paediatric endocrinologist.

Keywords: hyperthyroidism, newborn, children, diagnosis, treatment.